5 Things To Consider When Moving Internationally

Moving isn’t ever easy, regardless of how far you’re going. For example, even if you’re only relocating to a house a couple of blocks away, things can become stressful and challenging in a hurry. However, when people move internationally, the entire ordeal can be that much worse. After all, it’s not like transporting all your belongings to a new country is a simple matter. 

luggage and new apartment
I have recently moved to Amsterdam! This is my new apartment and all of the luggage I had.

Instead, those moving to a new country must meticulously plan their ventures. The hope is that, with careful planning, mishaps will be avoided and no issues will arise. So if you’re moving internationally soon and want everything to go off without a hitch, now’s the best time to start preparing. 

From looking into international car shipping to taking care of pets, the information below can help make your next move as easy as possible.

1. Should You Hire a Car Shipper?

If you own a car and you’re moving to an international destination soon, you’ll need to decide if you want to sell the vehicle or take it with you. As far as the latter is concerned, some assistance will be necessary, so you’ll need to hire a company that focuses on international car shipping. 

Most international transporters move cars from point A to point B by ship. The cars get loaded into shipping containers, which are loaded onto the decks of ships and ferried to their destinations on some occasions. The shipping containers protect your car from various types of damage that could occur during the trip. 

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A few car shipping companies transport vehicles by plane. However, most shippers don’t even bother offering this service because of its cost. Air transport is a great option to consider if money is no object and you want the best protection available for your luxury vehicle. 

2. Gather Your Documents Early

Nobody wants their international move to get held up because they forgot to dot some I’s and cross some T’s. However, that’s exactly the kind of trouble you could find yourself facing if you don’t have the appropriate documents ready to go on moving day. The paperwork and credentials you’ll need may vary depending on where you’re from and where you’re going. However, typical items people must gather when moving internationally include:

  • Passports
  • Driver’s license
  • Visa
  • Work permit
  • Birth certificate
  • Photo IDs
passport 2642171 1920 5 Things To Consider When Moving Internationally
Gather your documents earlier, including passport, visa and driver’s licence.

Consider tackling this project early to ensure your international move doesn’t get delayed. The items listed barely even begin to scratch the surface. Thus, be sure to get in touch with the appropriate government agencies where you live and where you’re moving to know exactly which documents you’ll need to move abroad.

3. Save Some Money

It’s always a good idea to do some research on your destination so you’re financially prepared to move there. For instance, did you know that staying in most countries for 183 consecutive days means that you’ll be subject to taxation as a resident? That can wreak havoc on your budget if you’re unprepared. 

So, before actually taking off to live abroad, make sure you have enough cash saved up. That will give you a nice little nest egg to cover the necessary taxes and keep financial hardships at bay. You can always make some money by holding a garage sale of all the belongings you won’t take with you when you move. You can also book flights and car shipments well ahead of moving day so you can get lower rates. 

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4. Don’t Forget About Household Pets

Something else people must think about when moving internationally is what to do with their pets. You have various options if you can’t take your pet with you. If a companion can’t travel with you abroad, consider finding them a new place to stay at your current location. One way to make sure your pets are taken care of is to drop them off at an animal shelter so they can be put up for adoption. Just make sure you go with a no-kill shelter so your furry friend ends up in good hands.

DSC09982 5 Things To Consider When Moving Internationally
Don’t forget about your lovely dog or cat.

You can also use various websites to put your pet up for adoption. Providing that you screen the new owner thoroughly, the pet will be left in capable hands to grow and thrive. 

Of course, it may be possible to relocate pets too. So, if there’s no way you’re leaving your pet behind, find a company that can transport them to the destination safely. In addition, you’ll need to take your companion to the vet because he or she might need vaccines or tests completed to enter the new country.

5. Turn Utilities On

Consider getting in touch with the utility companies where you’re moving before you actually move. Get them to turn the lights, water, and more in your new home. Forgetting to tackle this small but important task could be a catastrophe. Then, you’d either have to stay in the house without essentials or rent a hotel room until everything is sorted out. 

Option one would certainly be inconvenient. Meanwhile, option two could leave you feeling like you’re spending an arm and a leg on a roof over your head for a few days. So, stop these problems from becoming realities by turning utilities on ahead of time.

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Some Final Thoughts

Your international move will be a cinch after considering these five things.

agness moved in
Enjoy the process and your new home after moving! <3

Therefore, don’t delay any longer. Rather, use these tips for your international move and save yourself the stress and additional expenses.

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Picture of Agness Walewinder
Agness Walewinder
Travel freak, vagabond, photography passionate, blogger, life enthusiast, backpacker, adventure hunter and endless energy couchsurfer living by the rule "Pack lite, travel far and live long!"
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